Financial & Estate Planning

Using custodial accounts to hold assets for children is simple, inexpensive, and effective for income tax savings. There are drawbacks, …More

Much of the attention to retirement planning involves building up savings, but proper financial preparation for retirement involves more than …More

When you’re developing an estate plan, avoid these common errors: * Don’t give away assets too soon. Youngsters may be …More

A trust can be a vital component in an estate plan. What they offer: * Protection against possible incompetency. To …More

Variable annuities allow you to put your money into a variety of investment accounts, including stock funds, while deferring the …More

A well-executed prenuptial agreement is vital when both spouses come into a marriage with significant assets, children, or both. A …More

People who donate or bequeath substantial amounts to charity may want to replace that wealth for their heirs. Typically, wealth …More

At any age, illness or injury may cause a catastrophic medical condition and the loss of a patient’s ability to …More

The way in which assets are titled can be vital. The main options are:   * Your own name. Holding …More

A power of attorney grants someone (the “agent”) authority to act on behalf of another party (the “principal”). A durable …More

Don’t create a trust when it’s not necessary. Trusts can help avoid probate and smooth the transition in case you …More

Deferred annuities (fixed or variable) may be considered the opposite of life insurance because annuities can help you protect against …More

Variable annuities have received negative publicity in recent years, which may keep individuals from buying them. Although variable annuities have …More

Revocable trusts (sometimes called “living trusts”) are heavily promoted these days. When you create such a trust, you can remain …More

Asset protection strategies are gaining popularity but there are some points to keep in mind before you take any actions. …More

Naming the right beneficiary for your IRA is often given little thought, but it can be enormously important. Recommended strategies: …More

Although no one wants to think about their own funeral arrangements, ignoring the issue can lead to over-spending that will …More

The five years before retirement are probably the most critical there are in terms of getting ready for the big …More

In your will you could leave a certain amount with the direction that the executor use the funds to establish …More

If you are concerned about running short of money, as you grow older, you can buy an immediate annuity, also …More

You may have several options when deciding who should be the beneficiary of your IRA. Your spouse: He or she …More

Many Americans have so-called “blended” families. In such a family, one or both spouses have children from a previous marriage. …More

Every trust needs a trustee to assume responsibility for handling trust assets. Your choices include: Individual trustee: A friend or …More

Retirees who are entitled to a pension usually must make a choice, if they’re married: * Single-life pension. As indicated, …More